“In combination, man-made increases in greenhouse gases and stratospheric ozone depletion are expected to lead to both an intensification and redistribution of global precipitation,” said Bonfils, study coauthor.

The researchers say they identified a singular pattern that demonstrates the simultaneous response of precipitation location and intensity to external forcing. Marvel said, “Most previous work has focused on either thermodynamic or dynamic changes in isolation. By looking at both, we were able to identify a pattern of precipitation change that fits with what is expected from human-caused climate change.” The researchers identified a unique pattern that illustrates the simultaneous response of precipitation location and intensity to external forcing.

This report, while not focusing on extreme storms that make great movies, suggests a longer-term problem.

There are few industries in the world that do not depend to some extent on precipitation, whether it is to grow crops, provide water for cities and factories or support resorts.

Satellites have helped tremendously in identifying these changes and show they “are externally forced and likely to be from man,” said Bonfils.